How Breast Reconstruction Helps Women Heal Inside and Out
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time of education, advocacy, and support. And within this important month, one day stands out for women navigating life after a breast cancer diagnosis: Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) Day, held every year on October 15. BRA Day was created to empower women with knowledge, encouragement, and choices. For many survivors, breast reconstruction is more than cosmetic. It’s an emotional and physical part of healing, a way to regain confidence and feel whole again.
At the Julian Institute of Plastic Surgery, our team has the privilege of guiding women through this deeply personal process. Every journey is unique, but the goal is always the same: to help each patient feel supported, heard, and restored.
What Is Breast Reconstruction and Why Does It Matter
Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure to restore the shape and appearance of one or both breasts following a mastectomy or injury. It can be performed at the same time as a mastectomy or later, depending on the patient’s needs and treatment plan. While some patients may choose not to undergo reconstruction, for many women, this procedure is a powerful part of their emotional recovery and body image healing.
Julian Institute of Plastic Surgery, we specialize in a refined approach to breast reconstruction:
Tissue Expansion with Implants
This is the most common type of breast reconstruction. After the mastectomy, a tissue expander is placed beneath the skin and chest muscle. Over time, this expander is gradually filled with saline to stretch the tissue and create space for a breast implant.
Once the desired volume is reached, the expander is removed and replaced with a permanent silicone implant. Our surgeons often use an advanced dermal matrix sling technique that helps support the implant and shape the breast for a more natural-looking outcome. This gradual approach allows patients to adjust to changes and feel more in control of their transformation.
Matching and Symmetry
Creating a natural and symmetrical appearance is one of the key goals of breast reconstruction. In some cases, a breast lift or reduction on the unaffected breast may be recommended to improve balance. This is always a highly individualized decision and part of the tailored treatment plan developed during the consultation process. While every body heals differently and final outcomes can vary, most patients are pleased with the results and feel confident wearing their favorite clothing again.
How Many Surgeries Will I Need?
Breast reconstruction is rarely a single-step process. For tissue expander and implant reconstruction, patients typically undergo:
- The initial surgery to place the expander
- A follow-up surgery several months later to exchange it for a permanent implant
- Optional nipple reconstruction or tattooing for those who desire it
Minor surgical adjustments are sometimes required to correct symmetry, improve scarring, or refine contour. All of these factors will be clearly explained ahead of time to help patients feel fully prepared.
What to Expect During Recovery
Most reconstructions are performed at the same time as a mastectomy, minimizing the need for multiple hospital visits. During surgery, one or two drains are placed to remove excess fluid and promote healing. These usually stay in place for 1 to 2 weeks. After surgery, patients typically stay overnight for monitoring and pain management. Once home, they are prescribed antibiotics and pain relief medication and advised to wear a surgical support bra. Most patients experience discomfort for the first few days, which gradually improves. If expanders are used, the filling process begins once incisions have healed. This takes place over several weeks or months. The final exchange surgery is an outpatient procedure with minimal recovery time. Most patients are able to resume normal activities shortly after.
Stories of Resilience and Recovery
The decision to undergo breast reconstruction is never made lightly. For many women, it comes during one of the most challenging times of their lives. At Julian Institute of Plastic Surgery, we are deeply honored to walk beside our patients through each step of that journey. These brave women have graciously shared their experiences with Dr. Marc and Dr. Derek Polecritti, and their words speak for themselves.
“I highly recommend Dr. Derek Polecritti at Julian Institute of Plastic Surgery. I was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and when I went for my consultation to decide how I wanted to have reconstruction, he answered all my questions and made me feel and know that I was in great hands and made me feel at ease during this vulnerable time. His office staff Ruth that I mostly worked with was professional, but mostly kind and made me feel comfortable. I am so satisfied with my care and treatment.”
– Marianne
“I came here at one of the lowest times of my life . I was battling stage 3 triple negative breast cancer and preparing for a double mastectomy and considering reconstructive surgery . Once I met Dr Marc Polecritti and Rachel I knew I would be in wonderful hands. They were so compassionate and made me feel at peace, when all I felt up until that point was fear , because they listened to me and answered every question I ever had thoroughly! I’d never considered plastic surgery before but having so many changes to my body already I felt it was going to be ok . They were with me throughout all of it. Dr. Marc did an amazing job at placing my tissue expanders and finally my implants . It wasn’t easy for me and at times very painful , but Rachel and Dr Marc made sure I healed correctly and felt good about everything . Today I am cancer free and am happy with the look and feel of my new breast . I wouldn’t go anywhere else ever!! They are truly amazing people !!!!!”
– Caridad
“I am so grateful that I chose Dr. Derek to perform my breast reconstruction following my bilateral mastectomy for breast cancer. This was the scariest time of my life and he always made me feel like a priority, listened to all my concerns with patience and compassion. He is a skilled surgeon and my breasts look great. Thank you so much Dr. Derek!”
– Brandi
“After being diagnosed with breast cancer, I opted for a bi-lateral mastectomy. My surgeon suggested the Julian Institute for the reconstruction. Dr. Derek Polecritti was very kind and explained the entire procedure before my surgery. Eight months later the expanders were removed, the implants were inserted, and now I look even better than I did before. He made my anxiety in this situation easier.”
– Cynthia
Meet the Surgeons Guiding You
Dr. Marc Robert Polecritti, D.O.
Double board-certified in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and General Surgery, Dr. Marc Polecritti founded the Julian Institute of Plastic Surgery with a mission to offer exceptional, personalized care. He trained at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his plastic surgery fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic Health System, where he served as Chief Resident. With extensive experience and a warm, down-to-earth approach, Dr. Polecritti brings confidence and calm to every patient interaction.
Dr. Derek Polecritti, D.O.
Inspired by his brother Marc, Dr. Derek Polecritti is board-certified in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and brings an academic and compassionate spirit to his work. He earned his degree from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed a three-year fellowship in Plastic, Reconstructive, and Hand Surgery. He has presented at national conferences on breast reconstruction and continues to be active in the field through education and innovation.
Together, Dr. Marc and Dr. Derek offer a team-based, family-centered approach to care. They understand the physical and emotional complexity of this journey, and they’re ready to walk it with you.
Let’s Talk About Your Next Chapter
Choosing breast reconstruction is deeply personal. Some women want to start the process right away, while others wait until they feel emotionally ready. There’s no wrong answer. What matters most is that you have the information, the support, and the expertise to make the decision that’s right for you. If you’ve been recently diagnosed, are already in treatment, or had a previous reconstruction you’re unhappy with, we are here to help. Let’s explore your options together. Contact us and schedule a consultation today.
